Our most important goal in caring for our arthritic dog, is to make sure he or she is as comfortable and pain free as possible. In this article you’ll find lots of easy lifestyle changes that will do just that.
From making food and water bowls more accessible to providing beds with easy access, you’ll find lots of helpful tips to ensure your arthritic dog is more comfortable.
Read this for tips on reducing pain – “5 Effective Ways to Reduce Pain in Dogs with Arthritis”
Make Food and Water Bowls Easier to Reach
I was watching my dog Red eat one day, and even though she was such a small dog, I wondered if reaching down was as comfortable as it could be. I put both the food and water bowls on an upside down casserole dish (I don’t do much cooking anyway, so I might as well get some use out of it!), and the added height looked more comfortable for her.
Find DIY ways to raise the bowls or buy them as they come in a variety of styles, sizes and heights to suit your taste and budget.
If you are considering raising your dog’s bowls, I recommend a chat with your vet as there is a lot of conflicting information as to whether or not that could cause bloat. According to the Veterinary Medical Center of Central New York, “Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a serious condition and is fatal if left untreated. Commonly referred to as “bloat,” GDV occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and subsequently twists. GDV develops without warning and can progress quickly. It is always an emergency.”
Some dogs may find it more comfortable to eat/drink lying down, so give them that option as well.
Put more than one water bowl around the house, and space them out so your dog doesn’t have too far to walk to stay hydrated.
Supportive Beds with Ease of Access
If your dog doesn’t seem to settle in his bed as easily as he used to, it may be time to consider something different.
There is a huge range of orthopaedic beds available and/or heating pads, electric mats or microwavable packs to add to what he’s using now. It goes without saying but I’ll say it anyway, read the instructions carefully to avoid burns.
If you are considering buying a new bed, think about how easy it would be for your dog to get on and off. Are the sides very high? Does it sink in very deep?
There are beds with 3 high sides to lean against with a low front for ease of access. If looking at this option, check how firm/sturdy the sides are. Some are very soft they almost go flat when leaned against, while others are firmer and hold their shape.
Over time I noticed my dogs’ bed preferences changing. While napping on my bed one day, Red discovered my duvet. Well, that was that. I had to buy her two to replace the beds she used to use. I kept it poufy for her, and left a blanket in case she got cold. I also added a self-warming pad which made it even cosier.
She loved it because it was soft enough for her to rearrange into the shape she wanted, easy to get on and off, but firm enough to give her the extra support she needed.
On the flip side, she was often found snoozing on the carpet. I guess sometimes she needed a soft place to rest, and other times only a harder one would do.
Physical Exercise and Play
Even dogs with arthritis need exercise, even if it’s just a few short 10 minute leisurely strolls down the street.
If your dog can no longer run and chase the ball, try a short roll instead!
Keeping the Brain Active (Mental Stimulation)
With mobility somewhat limited and excess energy building up, puzzle toys are a great way to keep your dog’s brain active and prevent boredom. Putting him in a stroller or wagon to explore when he’s finished walking is also a great option. We’ll talk more about that next.
“Assisted Living” Devices
There are several “assisted living” products available, depending on the needs of your dog. Things like wheelchairs, slings, harnesses…
Ramps are handy for pets needing help getting in and out of the car, or having trouble using stairs. Be sure to make the slope as gradual as you can, as some dogs would find it difficult walking up a steep incline.
Carpeted pet steps means your dog still has access to your bed, or living room furniture!
A harness will make walking so much more comfortable for your dog, providing the extra support to take pressure off painful joints.
In my opinion, a doggie stroller or wagon is a “must have” for every senior dog parent and worth every penny. The stroller we have is lightweight, has a basket underneath for supplies, folds easily with a hook to keep it closed, cup holders and compartments on a padded handlebar, and mesh in front and back for airflow. It’s not only great for the dogs, it gets us out and walking more too!
“Should You Buy a Dog Stroller”
Nail Care
Nails that are too long make walking uncomfortable. Because the quicks on older dog’s nails tend to be quite long, very little of the nail can be trimmed at a time. That means more frequent visits to the groomer, unless of course you do it yourself.
Frequent Peeing
Arthritis can make it harder for your dog to get up to go out as often as he needs.
Waterproof liners and waterproof removable dog bed covers help with accidents, and in my opinion, pee pads are the greatest invention. My floors were covered in pee pads. Not the most attractive look but a carpet saver.
Flooring
Slippery floors and arthritic dogs are not a good combination.
I’m not suggesting you invest in wall to wall carpeting, but perhaps add some throw rugs with a nonslip padding underneath, carpet squares, bath mats or other padded surfaces, to help your dog be more sure footed.
Make sure you also buy a good enzymatic cleaner and stain remover, for accidents.
“How to Stop Old Dogs Slipping on the Floor”
Conclusion
With just a few minor changes, you see how easy it is to make your dog so much more comfortable.
What changes have you made that have improved your dog’s quality of life? Sharing helps others so please leave your tips and advice in the comment section below.
**I help senior dog parents struggling with anticipatory grief and quality of life issues by offering practical tips, advice and one on one support. I am also a Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist, helping you navigate through your pet loss journey.
Visit my services page to book a FREE 20 minute discovery call, or email me (Hindy) at hpearson141@gmail.com if you have any questions.
I’ve been rescuing and caring for senior dogs since 2009. From vision and hearing loss to obesity, dementia, kidney disease, liver issues, cardiac problems, Cushing’s, mobility challenges and more, you could say I’ve dealt with and learned a lot! In addition to my hands on experience, I’ve taken many courses and earned several qualifications to keep learning how to help senior dogs and they include: Senior Dog Enrichment, Understanding Canine Anxiety (diploma), Care of the Senior Pet (certificate), Pet Bereavement Counsellor (diploma) and I’m a Certified Pet Loss Grief Support Coach.